Lower Bucks Today

Victims of food stamp theft will continue to receive reimbursements until December 20, 2024, due to a provision in a stop-gap funding bill. This was secured by a bipartisan group of lawmakers led by Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, known as H.R. 9747, with a vote of 341-82, ensuring government funding and the flow of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

The issue has been highlighted by increasing reports of SNAP theft across the country, where skimming devices are used to steal benefits from electronic debit cards (EBT). States have been replacing stolen benefits under a measure from the 2023 omnibus funding bill, which was set to expire on September 30.

Representative Brian Fitzpatrick emphasized the importance of preventing SNAP theft reimbursements from ending: “Thousands of Bucks and Montgomery County residents depend on SNAP to put food on their tables." He added that this reimbursement provision is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the program.

Congressman Ruppersberger expressed relief that innocent constituents would not lose their primary source of healthy food while Congress works on long-term spending bills. "I want to thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle who recognize the dire straits that SNAP theft leaves its victims," he said.

Congressman Mike Lawler highlighted his commitment to ensuring that stolen SNAP benefits are restored: “Ensuring that SNAP recipients who have their benefits stolen are made whole is my top priority."

Lori Chavez-DeRemer expressed satisfaction with the extension included in the stopgap funding bill: “I’m glad our message was heard and an extension was included."

Dan Goldman also noted the significance of these reimbursements for working families: "SNAP theft can be devastating for working families and these reimbursements are a critical lifeline."

Grace Meng pointed out her efforts in recovering stolen benefits for New Yorkers: “I fought to help over 36,000 New Yorkers recover more than $17.5 million in stolen SNAP benefits.”

Kweisi Mfume condemned the targeting of vulnerable groups through benefit theft: “These sickening crimes are carried out against veterans, families, low-income workers, children, the elderly, and the disabled.”

Marc Molinaro stated his pride in protecting families reliant on SNAP: "Because of our bipartisan push, victims of SNAP theft will continue to be protected."

Jim McGovern stressed that affected individuals should not be abandoned by an indifferent government: “When they are stolen, people go hungry.”

The bipartisan effort ensures continued protection for those relying on SNAP benefits amid rising cases of benefit theft nationwide.